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What's better: outdoor potty training or pee pads for my dog?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | 1 year old | 2.7 lbs

I just started potty training my dog outside for the first time before that he was pre pad trained only, he is adjusting fine, but is it better for my dog to go out side or on a pee pad dose it really matter?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 9th, 2018

Personally, I always recommend teaching a dog to potty outside if at all possible - I'm not a huge fan of pee pads, as this can lead to confusion for many dogs who may use the bathroom on other absorbent surfaces in the home such as rugs, towels, clothing on the floor, etc. Training the dog to go outside in the grass is much clearer and less confusing :)

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